The Chefs emerged from Brighton's vibrant punk scene in 1979, blending indie pop and post-punk to create a distinctive sound characterized by upbeat melodies and insightful lyrics. Fronted by bassist and vocalist Helen McCookerybook, alongside guitarist Carl Evans, the band quickly gained attention with their energetic performances and relatable themes. Their 1980 EP, featuring tracks like "Sweetie" and "Thrush," received significant airplay from BBC's John Peel, leading to multiple Peel Sessions. Despite their brief tenure, disbanding in 1982, The Chefs left an enduring legacy, influencing the C86 and twee pop movements. In 2025, McCookerybook and guitarist James McCallum reunited as The Pop-Up Chefs, releasing the "Extended Play" EP, reimagining classic tracks for a new audience. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Chefs?utm_source=openai))